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Traveler and photographer.
I don’t travel just to see places. I travel because I want to know if there’s more than just everyday life. More about me
Carabao Island Beaches & Attractions – Discover the Philippines Away From Mass Tourism
Just a stone’s throw away from the tourist hotspot of Boracay, you’ll find the largely unknown Carabao Island. Here, you’ll experience a true tropical paradise far removed from mass tourism.
Only a handful of accommodations exist on the island, resulting in a quiet, relaxed and authentic atmosphere. Since very few travellers make their way to Carabao Island, you’ll mostly encounter deserted beaches and genuine Filipino island life.
Would you like to experience the Philippines away from crowded tourist destinations? Then Carabao Island will likely impress you, as it remains one of the country’s true hidden gems.
Not in the mood to read? Then take a look at the Carabao Island photo gallery instead.
What to Expect in This Travel Guide to Carabao Island’s Beaches & Attractions:
Carabao Island in a Reisebrise Video
1. Said Beach – A Dream Beach Without the Crowds
Said Beach will likely be the first beach you see on Carabao Island, as ferries from Caticlan arrive at the small harbour of the same name. This long stretch of beach impresses with its fine white sand, crystal-clear water and beautiful views towards neighbouring Tablas Island.
The only downside is that Said Beach isn’t particularly ideal for swimming, yet it still ranks among the best beaches on Carabao Island.
A Picture-Perfect Beach
Along this postcard-like tropical beach, you’ll find shade-giving palm trees and a few Bangka boats, completing the idyllic scenery.
Since day tourists are virtually non-existent, Said Beach offers a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere. During my visits, I counted only around three tourists in total.
Located Next to the Island’s Main Village
Behind the beach lies San Jose, the island’s small main village. Here you’ll find a handful of restaurants, small shops and a limited number of accommodations.
With its beautiful scenery and relaxed atmosphere, Said Beach deserves a place on every Carabao Island itinerary.
Useful Facts About Said Beach
2. Lanas Beach – Stunning Sunsets on Carabao Island
The long Lanas Beach is located on the western side of Carabao Island. From here, you’ll enjoy beautiful views towards neighbouring Boracay.
Lanas Beach is also known for offering some of the island’s most impressive sunsets. If you’re a fan of colourful sunsets and relaxed tropical evenings, this beach should definitely be on your itinerary.
To fully enjoy the experience, I’d recommend visiting Lanas Beach Resort, ordering a drink and watching the sun disappear behind the horizon, while overlooking Boracay and Puka Beach in the distance.
There Are Better Beaches for Swimming
Like many places on Carabao Island, Lanas Beach remains pleasantly uncrowded.
Parts of the water contain rocky sections, while the golden-coloured beach consists largely of coral fragments and small stones. If you’re searching for the perfect swimming beach, there are better options on the island.
What makes Lanas Beach special, however, is its untouched atmosphere and authentic island feeling far away from mass tourism.
Apart from a few accommodations and a small local village, you won’t find much infrastructure here.
Useful Facts About Lanas Beach
3. Cathedral Cave Cliff Jump – One of Carabao Island’s Highlights
Not far from Lanas Beach, you’ll find the Cathedral Cave Cliff Jump, one of Carabao Island’s most popular attractions.
Since some organised day tours from Boracay include this spot, it’s among the more visited places on the island. But don’t worry, visitor numbers remain fairly manageable, and the atmosphere is still much quieter than typical tourist hotspots.
Bamboo Walkways Above the Cliffs
The entire area is surrounded by dramatic coastal cliffs, connected by bamboo walkways and platforms. While exploring these paths, you’ll enjoy spectacular views over Carabao Island’s coastline and the surrounding turquoise ocean.
Jump From the Cliffs Into the Sea
The Cathedral Cave Cliff Jump is best known for its multiple cliff jumping platforms, allowing visitors to jump directly into the refreshing ocean below. There are different jump heights ranging from approximately 3 to 14 metres, suitable for both cautious beginners and adrenaline seekers.
Would you dare to jump from 14 metres?
Useful Facts About Cathedral Cave Cliff Jump
4. Kuding Kuding Point – Hidden Gem With Cliff Jumps & Sea Cave
Located very close to Cathedral Cave Cliff Jump, Kuding Kuding Point follows a similar concept. Here too, you’ll find coastal cliffs connected by bamboo walkways and platforms, all surrounded by crystal-clear ocean views.
You’ll also have the chance to jump into the sea, although the jumping platforms here are significantly lower than those at Cathedral Cave. This makes Kuding Kuding Point a great alternative, especially if the jumps at Cathedral Cave seem a little too intimidating.
Small Cave as an Extra Highlight
One additional highlight at Kuding Kuding Point is the small sea cave, which can be explored during low tide.
At high tide, however, the cave may become completely submerged and inaccessible. Depending on water levels, locals say it’s sometimes even possible to pass through the cave system.
You can also swim inside the small water-filled rock crevice, creating a rather unusual experience. A short swim in this natural rock pool was definitely one of the more unique moments during my visit.
Hardly Any Visitors – Relaxed Atmosphere
Compared to Cathedral Cave, which receives some boat tours from Boracay, Kuding Kuding Point feels much quieter and more relaxed. During my visit, I was the only guest, having the entire area to myself.
The site is also more spacious, offering sun loungers, covered seating areas and plenty of places to relax. In the end, I personally enjoyed Kuding Kuding Point slightly more than Cathedral Cave, although both locations are very similar overall.
Useful Facts About Kuding Kuding Point
5. Busay Cliff Jump – Another Creative Cliff Jumping Spot on Carabao Island
The cliff jumping concept seems to be a successful way to attract visitors on Carabao Island, and Busay Cliff Jump follows a very similar idea. Here too, you’ll find several jumping platforms, allowing you to jump into the clear water below or simply enjoy a refreshing swim.
Unlike the other cliff jumping locations on Carabao Island, Busay Cliff Jump does not feature a cave system.
However, this small missing highlight is compensated by an amazing panoramic view towards neighbouring Tablas Island, creating a truly beautiful setting.
Useful Facts About Busay Cliff Jump
6. Tagaytay Viewpoint – One of the Best Sunset Spots on Carabao Island
The Tagaytay Viewpoint should definitely be on your Carabao Island bucket list.
As the highest point on the island, the viewpoint offers spectacular panoramic views over Carabao’s lush green landscape. Surrounded by palm trees, jungle and tropical scenery, you can enjoy an incredible sunset from a small treehouse platform.
Facing the setting sun, your view stretches from Boracay all the way to Caticlan. Order a drink, sit back and simply enjoy the atmosphere. Besides refreshments, you can also purchase small souvenirs as travel memories.
Friendly Hosts & Overnight Stay Possibility
During my visit, I was the only guest, which gave me the chance to chat with the extremely friendly owner. In the past, visitors could stay in small bungalows at the viewpoint, but these were unfortunately destroyed by a typhoon.
Today, there is still the possibility to stay overnight in tents. If you’re interested, it’s best to contact the owner directly via Facebook.
Useful Facts About Tagaytay Viewpoint
7. Explore Carabao Island’s East Coast by Scooter – One of the Island’s Highlights
Exploring a destination independently by scooter is often one of the best ways to travel in Southeast Asia, and this is especially true for Carabao Island. Along the east coast, you’ll mainly encounter small local villages, while tourist infrastructure is almost non-existent.
Starting from San Jose, a well-maintained main road leads along the island and eventually takes you to Cathedral Cave, Kuding Kuding Point and finally Lanas Beach.
Breathtaking Scenery Along the Route
The drive along the east coast road follows the coastline for long stretches.
On one side, you’ll enjoy spectacular views over the ocean and neighbouring Tablas Island, while the opposite side reveals lush green landscapes and untouched tropical nature.
The scenery alone makes the journey worthwhile.
Several Hidden Beaches Along the Way
Scattered along the route, you’ll discover beautiful beaches with turquoise water, often completely empty and untouched. At many of these spots, you won’t find hotels, restaurants or any infrastructure at all, making them ideal places to relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Some beaches can be difficult to access, and many are not signposted.
Hardly Visible on Google Maps – A True Hidden Gem
Even on Google Maps, many beaches and parts of the east coast route are barely marked. There’s probably no better sign that Carabao Island has largely escaped mass tourism. When asking locals for the names of certain beaches, the answer is often simply: “Just beach.”
Despite the lack of names, I’ve put together a few worthwhile stops and a suggested route, which you’ll find in the section below.
Useful Facts About Carabao Island’s East Coast Route
Accommodation & Hotels on Carabao Island
Where I Stayed – Lanas Beach Resort
If you search through the major booking platforms online, you’ll quickly notice how little tourism exists on Carabao Island. Only a handful of accommodations can be booked online.
I stayed at Lanas Beach Resort and was genuinely very happy with my choice.
The staff were extremely friendly, helpful and welcoming throughout my stay. The rooms are simple but provide everything you need for a comfortable island experience.
The food was tasty, although the menu is somewhat limited, meaning you’ll likely try most dishes fairly quickly during a longer stay. From the resort, you can reach several attractions on foot within around 30 minutes, including:
- Cathedral Cave Cliff Jump
- Kuding Kuding Point
- Tagaytay Viewpoint
To reach Said Beach, expect a walk of roughly one hour.
Of course, you can also visit these places using the available rental scooters. Make sure to negotiate prices, as the initial rental fee of around 2,000 Peso per day is definitely overpriced.
I eventually paid 1,500 Peso for two days, which seemed much more reasonable.
Edward Lodge
Edward Lodge is an interesting alternative to the accommodation mentioned above, mainly because it’s located close to the beautiful Said Beach and represents a more affordable option compared to Lanas Beach Resort.
The small nearby village also offers slightly more infrastructure, including a few restaurants and small shops, although everything remains quiet and low-key.
I didn’t personally stay at Edward Lodge, so unfortunately I can’t provide more detailed information about the accommodation itself. Still, I wanted to mention it as an additional option, since Carabao Island offers only a limited number of accommodations.
Especially because of its excellent location near Said Beach, Edward Lodge could be a great choice for your stay.
Getting Around Carabao Island
The easiest and most comfortable way to explore Carabao Island is by renting a scooter, which usually costs around 500 Peso per day.
Since the island is relatively small, many attractions can also be reached on foot within about an hour. However, keep in mind that walking under tropical temperatures can quickly become exhausting.
If you plan to explore the island mainly by foot, I’d recommend staying near Lanas Beach.
From there, attractions such as:
- Cathedral Cave Cliff Jump
- Kuding Kuding Point
- Tagaytay Viewpoint
can be reached within around 30 minutes on foot.
San Jose village and Said Beach are approximately one hour away.
Another option is to hire a local scooter driver, which generally costs around 500 Peso per hour.
For availability and current prices, it’s best to ask directly at your accommodation.
How to Get to Carabao Island
From Caticlan to Carabao Island
From Caticlan Airport, you can take a tricycle to the ferry pier.
If you book the tricycle inside the airport area, expect to pay significantly more. A better option is to leave the airport and walk to the gravel parking area below the terminal, where prices are often around half the cost.
The ferry from Caticlan to Carabao Island costs approximately 100 Peso per person and takes around one hour to Santa Fe.
Departure is usually at 9:00 am, unless you decide to charter a private boat.
From Boracay to Carabao Island
Although Boracay lies only a few kilometres away, there is currently no regular ferry connection to Carabao Island.
According to locals, there used to be a connection, but it was discontinued due to low demand.
Option 1:
Travel back to the mainland in Caticlan, then take a tricycle to the ferry terminal and continue to Carabao Island.
Option 2:
The only direct route from Boracay to Carabao Island is by chartering a private boat.
For this, head to Puka Beach on Boracay and ask locals or restaurant staff. A private boat should cost around 1,500 Peso, although negotiation skills are important.
The crossing takes approximately 30 minutes and arrives near Lanas Beach on Carabao Island.
Interestingly, among locals, Carabao Island is often better known as Hambil.
From Tablas Island to Carabao Island
From Tablas Island, a ferry operates between Santa Fe and San Jose on Carabao Island.
The ferry usually departs once per day at 9:00 am, takes around one hour, and costs approximately 100 Peso per person.
Schedules and prices may change over time, so checking locally before travelling is recommended.
Recommended Length of Stay for Carabao Island
Carabao Island is relatively small, offering around seven worthwhile attractions alongside beautiful tropical scenery.
I’d recommend spending 2–3 days on the island, giving you enough time to explore Carabao Island’s highlights at a relaxed pace.
Of course, you could also stay for one or even two weeks, although depending on your travel style, the island may start to feel a little too quiet after a while.
If you have plenty of time available, I’d highly recommend combining Carabao Island with a stay on Tablas Island or Boracay, as each island offers a very different atmosphere and travel experience.
Best Time to Visit Carabao Island
Like many destinations in the Philippines, Carabao Island generally has two seasons: the dry season and the rainy season.
Dry Season: December to May
The best time to visit Carabao Island is between December and May, when rainfall is at its lowest and you can expect plenty of sunshine and stable weather conditions.
During these months, conditions are ideal for:
- Beach visits and swimming
- Exploring the island by scooter
- Cliff jumping and sightseeing
- Boat trips between nearby islands
- Watching spectacular sunsets at Lanas Beach or Tagaytay Viewpoint
Temperatures are usually between 25°C and 32°C, creating perfect conditions for a relaxed tropical island holiday.
Rainy Season: June to November
The rainy season generally lasts from June until November.
During this period, heavy rain showers and occasional storms can occur, which may affect ferry schedules, boat transfers and outdoor activities.
That said, Carabao Island remains beautiful and incredibly green during the wetter months, while the already low visitor numbers become even smaller.
My Recommendation
If your goal is to experience Carabao Island’s beaches, viewpoints and authentic island atmosphere under the best conditions, I’d recommend visiting between December and May.
Since Carabao Island still receives very few tourists, even during peak season you’ll often find quiet beaches and a relaxed atmosphere far from mass tourism.
Conclusion About Carabao Island
Even though Carabao Island doesn’t offer the world’s best swimming beaches, with the exception of Said Beach, I absolutely loved this island.
Here, you’ll experience an authentic side of the Philippines far away from mass tourism, surrounded by lush green landscapes and unspoilt nature.
During your stay, you’ll likely be greeted everywhere by curious local children calling out “Hello!”, adding to the island’s warm and genuine atmosphere.
Carabao is the perfect place to slow down, relax and enjoy a few peaceful days away from busy tourist destinations.
To get the most out of your trip, I’d recommend combining Carabao Island with a stay on Boracay or Tablas Island, as each island offers a completely different experience and atmosphere.
For me personally, Carabao Island remains one of those rare places that still feels untouched, and that’s exactly what makes it so special.
Do You Have Questions About Carabao Island’s Beaches & Attractions?
Are you planning a trip to this beautiful Philippine island that still remains a true hidden gem, and do you have questions about Carabao Island?
I’d be happy to help and answer them.
Simply use the contact form below to get in touch. If you have additional tips or experiences that could help other travellers, feel free to share them in the comments as well.
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